How Do IVs Work With The Circulatory System?

While many patients have heard the phrase ‘circulatory system,’ not everyone is familiar with what the circulatory system does in the body.

We all need blood to circulate through our bodies to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. But how do IVs work with the circulatory system?

Here is what every patient should know about the vital role this system plays in IV therapy.

How IVs Work With the Circulatory System

The cardiovascular system consists of two main components: the heart and blood vessels. The body has two types of blood vessels: veins and arteries.

IVs work with the circulatory system by allowing drugs, blood or fluids to directly enter the bloodstream. A health care provider, usually a nurse, will locate a vein for the IV site and insert a cannula, a device that moves substances into the bloodstream.

IVs are always placed in veins, not arteries, allowing the medication to move through the bloodstream to the heart.Treatments like Chelation therapy or alpha and beta-blockers enter the body via IV therapy and help patients deal with issues related to heart failure.

The Parts & Purpose of the Circulatory System

The heart moves blood through the vessels by rhythmically pumping. These contractions create blood pressure in the arteries, which pushes the blood in and around the body.

The main purpose of the circulatory system is to regulate blood flow according to a person’s needs. Our heart rate increases and decreases based on a variety of factors like exercise, stress or reactions to medications.

Common Issues

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every four deaths in the United States is attributed to heart disease. Heart disease is the result of a lack of blood supply to the heart due to narrowed arteries.

Factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking can significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Other common circulatory system problems include aneurysms and high blood pressure.

Circulatory Health

There are plenty of ways to help maintain a healthy circulatory system. Avoiding processed and fast food, along with limiting consumption of alcohol, can help improve circulatory health.

Exercising a minimum of 30 minutes a day during the week and maintaining a healthy weight are also key factors for strengthening the circulatory system.